Nature and Wildlife Tours in South Australia
Nature and Wildlife Tours in South Australia
Murray River & Flinders Ranges Wildlife Tour - from Adelaide
This immersive four-day journey connects the lush woodlands of the Mt Lofty Ranges with the rugged escarpments of the Flinders Ranges – traversing river systems, ancient gorges, and wide open plains. Led by an expert wildlife guide, this private tour offers the chance to see wild Koalas, Southern Hairy-nosed Wombats, Emus, kangaroos, Yellow-footed Rock-wallabies, and a wide variety of arid-zone birds. Along the way, you'll also experience cultural sites, spectacular lookouts, and rich geological history.
Day 1 – Adelaide to the River Murray
Departing Adelaide, we begin with a scenic drive into the Mt Lofty Ranges, where higher rainfall supports tall Eucalypt forests, orchards, and vineyards. In these lush hills we search for Koalas, the shy Southern Brown Bandicoot, and canopy birds such as Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo and honeyeaters. We continue to the summit of Mt Lofty for panoramic views over Adelaide and the Southern Ocean, before heading east into drier country. From here, expansive views open across the Murray Plains, and we begin to explore the transition to semi-arid habitat.
After lunch, you might like to take a wetland cruise to see cormorants, pelicans, herons, and other waterbirds. Later, we continue upriver to a private wildlife sanctuary to enjoy dinner overlooking the cliffs as they catch the last light. After dark, we spotlight for Southern Hairy-nosed Wombats, kangaroos, and other nocturnal wildlife.
Overnight: Barossa Valley
Day 2 – Murray River to the Flinders Ranges
We head north through rolling farmland and vineyards, arriving at Port Augusta by mid-morning. Here we visit the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens, which showcase the hardy native flora of Australia’s inland deserts. These flowering plants attract a wealth of birds, especially honeyeaters, and the gardens provide a superb introduction to the ecology of the outback.
After lunch, we continue into the Flinders Ranges, arriving in the dramatic landscape surrounding Wilpena Pound. Wildlife becomes abundant as we enter the park, with excellent chances to see kangaroos, emus, and Wedge-tailed Eagles. In the spinifex-clad hills we search for the elusive Short-tailed Grasswren, one of the region’s arid-zone specialties. As the sun sets, the ranges glow red and ochre – a stunning backdrop to end the day.
Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort
Day 3 – Exploring the Flinders Ranges
Today is dedicated to exploring the natural and cultural heritage of the Flinders Ranges. You may wish to begin the day with a scenic flight over Wilpena Pound, offering breathtaking aerial views of this eroded ancient range. Alternatively, we can walk to the edge of the pound along a tree-lined creek. Later we follow gorges and dry creek beds that reveal exposed rock layers dating back 800 million years. We visit the Ediacaran fossil site, one of the most important early records of multicellular life on Earth. This rugged terrain is also home to the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, often spotted among the boulders in the late afternoon. As we return to base, the vast outback begins to unfurl beyond the ranges.
Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort
Day 4 – Return to Adelaide via Clare Valley
Today we begin our return to Adelaide, taking our time to explore several points of interest along the way. Our first stop is the Yourambulla Caves, a culturally significant Aboriginal site known for its ancient rock paintings and insights into the lives of the Adnyamathanha people. Travelling south, we pass through a series of true “ghost towns”, and pause in the charming town of Melrose, nestled at the base of Mt Remarkable.
Near the coast north of Adelaide, we explore an unusual and ecologically important habitat of low mangroves and expansive samphire swamps. These tidal flats are home to interesting and often range-restricted bird species, including an endemic race of the Slender-billed Thornbill, along with Elegant Parrots, Red-capped Plovers, and a variety of waterbirds depending on season and tide.
Our final stop is the Clare Valley, one of South Australia’s finest wine regions. Here we can relax with a tasting at a local winery before continuing to Adelaide, arriving in the early evening.
Private tour - departs any day, subject to availability of specialist guide
Tour Code: NA4MF
To Book or Enquire: Email (Please include Tour Code)
3 Day Kangaroo Island Wildlife Tour
Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s premier nature destinations – a stronghold for unique wildlife, dramatic coastal scenery and delicious cuisine. This three-day journey is designed to showcase the island’s best, combining immersive wildlife experiences with gourmet produce and a generous dose of local hospitality. Travelling with an experienced naturalist guide, you’ll gain privileged access to pristine bushland, wild beaches, and artisan producers across this uniquely preserved island.
Day 1 – Island Life
From Adelaide, you’ll travel south through the Fleurieu Peninsula to Cape Jervis and take the ferry to Kangaroo Island. Begin your journey in the Cygnet Valley, winding through redgum woodland, mallee scrub and rolling farmland. This diverse area supports wild Koalas, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos, Tammar Wallabies, and a broad array of woodland birds and parrots. During the warmer months, Short-beaked Echidnas and Rosenberg’s Goannas are often encountered.
Pause for a home-baked morning tea before continuing north to the white sands of Stokes Bay – one of the island’s most iconic beaches, known for its secluded coves and excellent shorebird and seabird activity. Enjoy a seafood barbecue lunch served at a private redgum bush setting, featuring King George Whiting, local produce, and South Australian wine and beer. In the afternoon, travel south through coastal heathland to the Seal Bay Conservation Area, home to the third-largest colony of Australian Sea-lions. Join a privately guided beach walk for close, respectful encounters and to learn about their unusual breeding cycles and social behaviour.
Overnight in American River
Day 2 – Flinders Chase Focus
Today we journey to the remote western end of the island, exploring the vast wilderness of Flinders Chase National Park. Dominated by coastal mallee, wind-sculpted heath, and ancient granite tors, this region offers exceptional wildlife and scenic experiences.
Atop the cliffs, the sculptural forms of Remarkable Rocks offer sweeping ocean views and habitat for coastal birds such as Pacific Gulls, Australasian Gannets and – seasonally – Short-tailed Shearwaters. In the low heath, listen for the call of Western Whipbird, while watching for Tawny-crowned Honeyeater and Southern Emu-wren. At Cape du Couedic, watch Long-nosed Fur Seals hauled out on the rocks below the boardwalks at Admirals Arch, and during winter, keep a lookout for Southern Right Whales offshore. A bush picnic lunch featuring local cheeses, smoked meats, and regional wines is served in a shaded forest glade or scenic coastal site, depending on the weather.
Overnight in American River
Day 3 – Fine Flavours of Kangaroo Island
Your final day is dedicated to exploring the island’s vibrant artisan food and drink scene.
Begin the morning with a tailgate tasting among the trees at Kangaroo Island Olives, sampling estate-grown table olives and oils. Pass by Fryar’s Free Range Eggs, learning about their free-roaming hens and guardian Maremma dogs. In American River, visit the Oyster Farm Shop to see how Pacific Oysters are cultivated in the sheltered waters of Eastern Cove. We’ll take some freshly harvested oysters to enjoy as a starter during a lunch overlooking the leases, which also attract birdlife such as Black Swan, Royal Spoonbill, Pied Oystercatcher and Nankeen Night Heron.
After lunch, tour Clifford’s Honey Farm, producers of the island’s famous Ligurian Bee honey, and enjoy tastings including their iconic honey ice cream. Round out the day with a wine tasting at The Islander Estate, known for their refined Bordeaux-style reds and crisp whites. Just down the road is Kangaroo Island Spirits, whose award-winning gins and liqueurs have gained international acclaim.
Shared tour - departs subject to availability
Tour Code: NA3KI
To Book or Enquire: Email
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